Consciousness

Consciousness itself is one of the most profound and mysterious aspects of human existence. It is the state of being awake and responsive to our surroundings, thoughts, feelings, and somatic sensations. Consciousness allows us to experience the world, reflect on our inner selves, and commune with others.

Consciousness is not a simple or singular phenomenon, but rather multidimensional – involving different levels, modes, and aspects. It is not fixed, but dynamic and evolving, shaped by various factors like context, culture, and history. Consciousness is richly diverse, defying reduction to any one explanation or definition. It beckons an interdisciplinary, integrative approach considering multiple perspectives.

One of the most ancient and effective ways to enhance and transform consciousness is through the disciplines of yoga, meditation, and the martial arts. Washindo embraces these physical, mental, and spiritual training systems that have originated across cultures worldwide – China, Japan, India, Korea, Israel, Brazil and more.

Washindo is not solely about self-defense or combat. It is a path of personal growth and spiritual development that harmonizes mind, body, and spirit.

Consciousness and the martial arts are both complex, multidimensional phenomena involving different levels and modes. They are dynamic, shaped by factors like context, culture and history. Consciousness and martial arts are intimately interconnected, empowering and enriching our lives in myriad ways.

A key bridge between consciousness and martial arts is the practice of meditation. Meditation is the technique of focussing the mind on a single object, thought, or sensation like the breath, a mantra, or the flowing movements of mushin-no-shin. It aims to cultivate a state of present awareness, calm clarity that can enhance physical, mental and spiritual development.

Consciousness is not always unfettered; it can be constrained or liberated by various factors influencing how we perceive and interpret reality. The “unfettered mind” refers to a state of consciousness free from limitations, biases, distortions and attachments. It is open, flexible, creative, insightful – seeing things as they are without preconceptions, emotions or expectations shaping our lens. The unfettered mind is independent, authentic, acting from its own values and principles rather than outer pressures.

Consciousness is not binary – either fettered or unfettered. It is a spectrum, a gradual phenomenon that can vary in degrees of expansiveness or constraint. Both consciousness and the unfettered mind are intricate, multifaceted phenomena demanding a holistic, integrated approach considering multiple dimensions.

One of the most innovative and effective ways to enhance and transform consciousness is through the practice of Washindo. Within its training, consciousness is continuously cultivated and transformed as we experience the benefits and challenges of achieving higher states of awareness. Washindo is not just a martial art, but a way of living that integrates various aspects of consciousness like awareness, calm, clarity, creativity and insight through its synthesis of yoga, meditation and martial disciplines